Dr. Sara and John Gotwalt offer several replacement options for missing teeth in their Lititz, PA dental office. They will help recommend a treatment for you based on your oral health needs, goals, and budget. Drs. Gotwalt will also evaluate your teeth and gums to determine a treatment plan. Dental implants are a versatile restoration made of a post that is surgically implanted into the jaw bone. Implants replace teeth at the root and are capped off with a durable dental crown. Removable dentures are a set of artificial teeth that require extensive care. Drs. Gotwalt will often recommend dental implant-secured dentures over removable dentures because they last longer and look and feel like natural teeth. Learn how implants compare to dentures below.
Comparing Implants and Dentures
There are several factors to look into when comparing removable dentures and implants:
Bone loss: If you’re missing a tooth or multiple teeth, that gap can actually cause additional bone loss and deterioration in your jawbone. Dental implants are the only option for missing teeth that stimulates the jaw bone which helps stimulate bone growth and also prevents further bone loss. Removable dentures sit on top of the gums and do not help any of the remaining tooth structure.
Fit and Comfort: Removable dentures require messy adhesive and can feel uncomfortable because they may cover a large portion of your mouth with plastic. Dentures will deliver about a 30-40% normal chewing function, while dental implants restore 100% of the chewing function back. Dentures may also slip around in the mouth or may not fit correctly leaving patients worried about whether their “restoration” may fall out.
Facial Appearance: Although both dentures and dental implants will help keep the natural shape of your face and lower jaw area to combat facial sagging, dental implants look more like natural teeth. Dental implants can also be color-matched to natural teeth for a brighter look.
Cost: Initially, dentures cost significantly less than dental implants. However, dentures will need to be replaced, realigned, or rebased over time. This cost can add up depending on the wear and tear of your restoration. Dental implants cost more upfront but are a permanent solution.